Help Bel recover after Halo surgery. C1 vertebrae fracture

2 weeks ago my fiancée Bel was in a freak accident while mountain biking in the Queenstown Bike Park. A tree fell and lay over the trail she was riding. With no time to react she hit the tree, flipped over the handlebars fracturing her C1 vertebrae, scapula and clavicle. Bel was stretchered off the hill and taken to Frankton hospital then airlifted to Dunedin hospital to have surgery immediately.

Bel has been fitted with a Halo and vest brace which will hold her head, neck and spine in place for the next 3 months. Thankfully Bel has feeling and movement in all her limbs. The road to recovery is long with months of physio/rehab once the halo is removed. Thankfully we now have her home in Queenstown to start the journey.

Before the accident Bel was studying full time while also managing to work part time. She completed her degree the week prior and was about to start full time work. Only working a few hours a week she is only eligible for minimal payment from ACC to cover living costs. Bel will be off work for at least 3 months of her recovery which is hugely detrimental to her mental health.

Bel is strong willed, has not lost her humour and is staying as positive as she can during this difficult time. She’s determined and motivated to get back on her feet and return to normal life.

My hope by starting this page is to alleviate the stress and anxiety Bel has by not being able to contribute to rent, food, household bills,medical expenses etc

Thank you for your support and generosity.